Why Visit Victoria Falls?

Known locally as Mosi-oa Tunya, meaning “the smoke that thunders,” Victoria Falls stands as one of Africa’s most renowned destinations. It captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty and is a must-see attraction for anyone exploring Zimbabwe or Zambia.

Location and Significance
Spanning the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls forms the boundary between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Its name, “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” was coined by the Kololo tribe in the 1800s, reflecting the immense columns of spray visible from afar, especially during the rainy season when over five hundred million cubic meters of water per hour cascade over the edge, creating a spectacle stretching nearly two kilometers.

Choosing Your Side: Zimbabwe or Zambia
Deciding between Zimbabwe and Zambia largely hinges on your safari preferences. Both offer stunning views of the falls, but accommodation options and leisure activities may sway your decision. With camps on both sides, visitors have ample choices to suit their preferences. Notably, Zimbabwe boasts about three-quarters of the falls, providing prime vantage points for unparalleled views.

Exploring the Falls
Walking through Victoria Falls National Park immerses you in a verdant rainforest, leading to viewpoints overlooking the majestic Main Falls. On the Zambian side, visitors can venture close to the cascades, especially during high-water season, traversing the Knife-Brink Bridge for an exhilarating experience. Even during low-water season, the sight of the boiling pot below the falls leaves a lasting impression.

Is Victoria Falls the Largest Waterfall?

Victoria Falls holds the title of the largest waterfall globally, boasting a combined width of 1,708 meters and a height of 108 meters. Despite not being the widest or tallest, its sheer size surpasses renowned waterfalls like Niagara and Iguacu.

Exploring the Smaller Falls
Within Victoria Falls lie five distinct waterfalls, each with its own charm. Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and the Eastern Cataract in Zambia offer unique perspectives and experiences, ranging from cultural significance to breathtaking vistas.

Encounters with Wildlife
Victoria Falls attracts a diverse array of wildlife, including warthogs, zebras, giraffes, baboons, and mongooses. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting hornbills, drongos, flycatchers, and herons. Surrounding national parks like Chobe, Hwange, and Lower Zambezi offer further opportunities to observe iconic African fauna, including elephants, rhinos, lions, and leopards.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re drawn to Victoria Falls for its natural splendor, wildlife encounters, or cultural richness, a visit promises unforgettable experiences amidst one of Africa’s most remarkable landscapes.